Bystander CPR/AED Training Initiative

This program was made possible through a grant from Illinois Heart Rescue and Swedish Covenant Hospital Foundation.

Bystander CPR is a critical link in the chain of survival. Studies show that for every minute of delay before starting CPR, survival decreases 10%. As the minutes tick by, the likelihood of a victim dying or suffering permanent brain damage increases. Waiting for an ambulance is not an option.

Compress the chest at least two inches and let it completely rise before pushing down again.

To deliver compressions at the correct speed (100-120 per minute) consider a familiar song at the same tempo, such as “Stayin’ Alive” by the Bee Gees.

3. Continue Chest Compressions Until…

The victim begins to breathe.

Another trained individual can take over.

Emergency specialists arrive and take over.

You become too exhausted to continue delivering compressions.

An AED has been prepared.

You feel your safety is threatened.

Note: If other bystanders are available, you can coach them to take over compressions when you need to take a break. It is important to keep the same rhythm (without any breaks or delays) once compressions have begun.

Automated External Defibrillator (AED)

An AED is a portable device that can deliver an electric shock to restore normal heart rhythm.

If an AED is available, continue compressions until it is prepared for application.

After turning on the AED, audio prompts will provide step-by-step instructions on how to use the device.